AU troops struggle to secure Somali city

Peacekeepers face hurdles, including explosive devices left behind by rebel group al-Shabab.

Somalian security forces, backed by African Union troops, are gradually extending their control over Kismayo after forcing al-Shabab rebels out of many parts of the city.

Kismayo was the last key stronghold of al-Shabab, which had taxed goods coming into the port city to fund its operations. Al-Shabab announced its withdrawal from Kismayo shortly after the mainly Kenyan assault last week.

But AU forces have continued to face numerous hurdles, including improvised explosive devices left behind by al-Shabab, as they try to secure control over the city.